travel Archives - Page 53 of 91 - Have Sippy Will Travel

Fighting Boredom is One Key to a Happy Family Vacation

June 3, 2016 by Samantha 2 Comments

20141204_133117

Traveling with kids can be a lot of fun. If you don’t believe me take a trip to Disney World with a six-year-old. The way their face lights up at every turn will make every mile traveled worth it. But struggles along the way can make taking a vacation with kids seem like a prison sentence.

Kids’ patience can wear thin when they’re stuck in the car or on an airplane and just want to start enjoying the vacation. If they don’t have things to keep them busy boredom will set in followed by cries of “are we there yet?”

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure in this scenario. Packing the right supplies for the trip can keep boredom at bay so everyone stays happy.

A Steady Power Supply

Today, most kids can be entertained for hours with electronics. It’s actually amazing how quiet a car or plane ride can be when kids are engrossed in a game on a device. But then the battery icon turns the dreaded red. Right when they’re at the best part of the movie or about to beat their top score the power finally gives out.

Packing a powerbank in your bag (or even two) can help you keep electronics charged when there’s no electric outlet in sight. Powerbanks store power and have ports so that devices can be plugged directly into them. This isn’t just a matter of having endless entertainment. Being able to charge cell phones and navigation systems on the go make them well worth the cost.

Relax With Reading Material

Even if you have an ample power supply there are times when electronics can’t be used, like during the first 20-30 minutes of a flight. Kids and teens that aren’t used to being without their devices will need another distraction. This is the perfect opportunity to get them to pick up some old-fashioned entertainment – books.

Reading is one of the best sources of relaxation because it’s a great distraction. The best part is research has shown any type of reading material has relaxing benefits. It can be a comic book, a young adult novel or an insect identification guide.

It could be fun to get your kids books and maps on the place that you plan to visit. While they read they can start planning what they want to do while you’re there. You can also get each kid a journal so they can write their own story and chronicle the events of the trip.

Coloring Books for Adults and Kids

Another fun pastime that’s popular right now is detailed coloring books. Kids will definitely enjoy them, but they’re designed for teens and adults as well. The coloring books have beautiful, intricate patterns that help relax the mind and spark creativity. Coloring just one page can easily keep you entertained for an hour or more.

These types of coloring books work best with coloring pencils. That means you’ll need to pack a pencil sharpener as well, or you may run out of the color you need before you’re done.

Cameras to Capture the Trip

Kids innately know how to use electronic devices these days. Even small children are fascinated with them, including cameras. Usually parents are the ones trying to capture their kids on camera, but what if the shoe was on the other foot? A super fun way to keep your kids entertained is to give them their own camera for the trip.

It can be an old one you haven’t used since you got a smart phone or a cheap disposable camera. It really won’t make much of a difference to your kid once they start snapping away. At the end of the trip you can take the pictures and video clips they captured and create a slide show for the family.

Stock Up on Classic Games

Some games are considered to be classics because they are still just as fun today as they were decades ago. Car bingo is one classic that was made for travel. A deck of cards is all you need for dozens of games that the whole family can play together. Legos are another way to stop boredom before it happens. You can even upcycle an old lunchbox to create a portable Lego kit.

Vacations are a great way for families to bond and break free of daily stressors. Just make sure you pack extra entertainment so boredom doesn’t derail the trip.

Visiting Dorney Park #DorneyFirstTimer #ad

June 2, 2016 by Samantha 5 Comments

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company in conjunction with Blog Meets Brand, and I have been compensated for my participation. All opinions are my own.

Now that it’s, summer (and now that nature has hopefully figured out what season is it) it is now time to enjoy the sun. One of the best ways to enjoy that beautiful weather is by screaming at the top of your lungs on a thrill ride or roller coaster. One of the most popular local amusement parks is Dorney Park in near by Allentown Pa.

20160515_121521

Dorney Park is the perfect destination for fans of summer fun- all ages and enjoyment levels will have a great time, from the roller coaster enthusiast to the little ones who just want to play with familiar Peanuts characters and get their feet wet. The best way we have found to tackle an amusement park is by splitting up at some point. Mom and little guy venture off together to the kids area while dad ventures onto the roller coasters. This is the way the day starts because lines are shorter earlier in the morning. We all get in several rides before meeting up again to discuss the plans for lunch and the rest of the day.

20160515_121607

As my son is getting bigger and more adventurous, he is sometimes interested in something with a bit more thrill and a little less little kiddie. He is now able to hit the roller coaster rides with Dad, but sometimes height and safety requirements are just not there yet for him. He gets on the ones he is able to, and we do the “lighter” ones as well. Dorney Park has rides for all levels of enthusiast, including eight roller coasters spread out throughout the park. Snoopy Planet is perfect for the little ones, which not only includes rides but also have character interactions and an amphitheater for special kid oriented shows throughout the day.

20160515_133052

There are also classic thrill rides which turn up the fun with big turns, big twists, and big fun. Family rides are perfect for everyone to enjoy (even those of us who can no longer do the big thrill rides). These are similar to the carousel, road rally cars, and a Ferris wheel.

20160515_132004

Some tips for Dorney: Come early, keep hydrated, always know where the bathrooms are, bring comfortable shoes, and if hitting the roller coasters but are of a taller or heavier weight then average- ask the employees for their honest opinion on if you will fit in the seats, it will save a ton of time and a ton of embarrassment, lol.

Filed Under: review Tagged With: family travel, PA, theme park, travel

Traveling With Kids In Hot Weather

June 1, 2016 by Samantha 2 Comments

Sometimes, travel occurs in the hotter months, or in the summer. This can be hard work when you’re on your own, or with a friend or partner. But when you’ve got a kid, or kids, and are taking them along with you? It is a totally different ball game. Whether you’re traveling to steaming hot sunshine in Hawaii or a hot New York afternoon, you’ll need to be prepared.

05 30 12 Nikon 228

Here is how to make traveling kids in hot weather more bearable for everyone. Here is a clue; It’s all in the preparation.

First off, be sure to give some careful consideration to how you are traveling. Taking your own car is great, as you get to decide when you travel and how. But if that option isn’t available, bus travel is a good alternative. Buses now have good air-con, which will keep everyone cool when it is hot outside. Many have toilets on them too, which can avoid other types of discomfort. Also, be sure to book your bus tickets in advance. You can pick them up on online these days, which is really handy. Get bus tickets from Shofur, for example, and they guarantee clean, safe and pleasant travel. All of which are great words in a parent’s vocab!

Next, you need to think about your packing. Taking the right items with you will make all the difference. Layers are the best way to dress your children in hot weather. If they get too hot, you can strip them down to just one layer. However, if they go inside a shop with air-conditioning, for example, you can keep them warm. Hand-held fans are way more effective than the nearest sheet of paper! Or, consider a little electric hand-held fan.

Outside in the heat, a wide-brimmed hat will do more than just protect their heads. It will also keep their heads cool. Plus, the wide brim will protect and cool their forehead and neck. Of course, sunblock is a must in hot weather. You can use it to cool them down also. Keep it in a cool bag and it will go on nice and cold. Or get a mist; these usually come out much cooler than those in bottles.
You also need to give some thought to your activities. If you will be inside a lot of the time, you’ll be fine. But what if you’ve got outdoor activities planned, like hiking or swimming. The right clothing, hat and sunscreen will go a long way. But so will keep them in the shade. Or, if they are out in the sun, having them go in the shade every half an hour or so. This will keep their body temperature down, and generally, keep them happier! Sunstroke is not fun.

Finally, be sure you keep your kids hydrated. It will keep them happy and functioning, and will again ward off sunstroke. Being dehydrated can just lead to mild things like headaches, but again, this is not something you want to deal with while traveling.

Filed Under: lifestyle, traveling Tagged With: check in, family travel, travel

Walt Disney Worlds Resorts with Scholastic’s Can’t Wait for School Break collection

June 1, 2016 by Samantha Leave a Comment

05 30 12 392

Now that the sun is finally starting to peek its head around the clouds and warm that nip out of the air its time to start thinking about family trips. As with most family trips kids will of course be coming, drat. But fear not human parents, with the help of Scholastic there are many tips to be found to make the most of your trip, either during the school year or just making it through a long car or plane ride.

In our house Dad likes his audio books in the car while Mom can’t stand them, but what if the audio books were more kid centered. With audio books the longest of rides are simply eaten away at with a good story and an enthusiastic reader. Scholastic has a few suggestions for children of all ages and I am sure if Mom, Dad and little one look through the list together they will find at least one story they can all enjoy together.

If audio books aren’t for you there are also tablets for the kids and adults, as well as portable music players and digital games for little kids, big kids and adult kids. With your in flight entertainment figured out its time to wrap your head around school work. What are some ways to keep your kid stimulated and learning while on vacation?

Below are a few tips from Scholastic:

1) Give your teacher the heads up at least a week before hand, they will be happy to keep your child in the know with current school work.

2) Double check supplies, make sure you have pens, pencils, crayons, notebooks, etc. Especially if leaving the country or going to a more rural area where office supply stores are not available.

3) Stay in touch, check the class website, email the teacher, etc.

4) Every day is a learning experience if you look and be creative, have your child journal her experiences and feelings (reinforces ELA connections and mindfulness), research the destination (underscores study skills and social studies concepts), bring her own independent reading book for the trip (always a good idea), help calculate mileage and a budget for souvenirs (enhances math connections) are a few suggestions.

5) remember bed time stories, keep the bed time rituals going and read as often as possible. Keep a book log and find topics relevant to your trip. Going to New York City, find a book about it, etc.

6) Bring a tablet or laptop, the internet is a wealth of information for kids and parents from tutorials to video lessons, a topic is just a few clicks away.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Disney. The opinions and text are all mine.

Filed Under: disney, education, entertainment Tagged With: disney, education, travel

Travel Light, Pack Right

May 27, 2016 by Samantha 2 Comments

Disclosure- I received the below in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own and honest. See more at “I Disclose”.

When you are taking a family vacation, you want to be ready for anything. You also don’t want to pack everything and the kitchen sink. What do you really need when you are headed out?

A good cell phone is key. I know some people are die hard apple fans, but I love Samsung. In my opinion, it is the better option and I have preferred them for years. The new Galaxy S7 is amazing, you won’t want to put it down. The photos are sharp- which is a must for not only travel but anyone with children, the apps you can download are great and varied (nearly everything comes in an android version now, and if it doesn’t there is something similar), and most of the new versions are water resistant, which makes them that much more durable. They tend to last longer then other brands I’ve had as well, without getting “glitchy” or throwing as many errors or slowing down as much as they get older. (Yes, I keep my phones for the long run, then I let my son play with them on wifi only when I upgrade.) Sprint, the network that I’m using, also pairs really well with the new Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge and has some really awesome offers at the moment for both new and existing customers, so it’s the perfect time to upgrade. Summer travel is only a few weeks away, check out all that you can get with these new phones and services. No one likes to be in a dead zone, or “out of range”. Options and prices vary, visit your Sprint store for details.

While your phone will likely be your main source of photo taking, lets be real- you need a camera for all the “big stuff”. You don’t want to take your phone into a lake, the ocean, the pool, or ziplining- at least I don’t. The photos might be awesome, but I don’t want to lose the phone (or ruin it) in the process of getting those “must have” shots. The new GoPro HERO4 Session is the smallest, lightest camera that has come from the GoPro family yet, and the price point is doable at $200. It has an app that lets it connect to your phone (for free) and you can see your photos and videos right away if you would like. Smart remote sold separately. You can hold it, mount it, wear it- really, anything you’d like. It’s waterproof, so you can take it jet skiing, snow tubing, kayaking- whatever suits you. It’s really a camera that is ready for any adventure, and provides high resolution, sharp, professional-looking video. Charge it up, and it’s ready to go capture some memories. Pick yours up at https://gopro.com/ .

You will want to dress appropriately, without having to pack everything. A good pair of shoes is top of the list, and one pair that I really like (and that does double-duty) is The Sara by NAOT. Not only super cute, but super comfortable. Dress them up or down, these gladiator inspired sandals are padded, and have an anatomic cork and latex footbed which is wrapped in oh-so-soft suede. Yes, it can get wet and still look fine and function. As you wear it, the sole molds to the shape of your foot. The heel and back panels have additional lining and padding as well for extra comfort no matter how long you wear them. I have worn these all over the place, and have not got blisters or weird “ow” spots from strange rubbing . Of course, that doesn’t mean go hiking the first day you wear them, be smart- they are still shoes, break them in. Get them at http://naot.com or Amazon for about $150, several colors available.

Looking to stay warm? Why not keep the dreaded bugs (now with added Zika virus) at bay with the new line from Craghoppers. The NosiLife Apparel with Insect Shield® insect repellent as well as sun protection woven into the fabric is non-irritant and non-hazardous to the skin. The jackets are cute and comfortable as well, perfect for summer weather excursions and nights when it gets cooler. My son tried out the new Nat Geo NosiLife Chima Jacket, which is soft and lightweight, has front pockets, zip front, and a hood for when it gets chilly. It’s also nearly impossible to wrinkle, which mom appreciates. I tested out the NosiLife Astrid Cardigan, which has neither pockets nor hood, but is easy to dress up or down, so it’s perfect for trips where you can’t pack too much. Also soft, lightweight, and hard to wrinkle, neither of us had bug bites on our arms while wearing these jackets. Pick up jackets for your crew at http://www.us.craghoppers.com/

One more item that has become somewhat of an essential for me is the RFID Travel SCOTTeVEST. It’s perfect for all those times when you don’t want to or can’t carry a giant bag, but want to carry things with you. Your camera, binoculars, tablet, granola bars, wallet, maps, whatever provisions you prefer- this vest has room for it all. It has 18 pockets, is super lightweight, and looks nice on as well. You won’t look like the marshmallow man when wearing it- huge plus. It comes in several colors, and has a special RFID blocking pocket to keep your passport, credit cards, etc safe from pickpockets and identity thieves. Because the pockets are on the inside, your stuff is also safer from wandering hands. You can choose from a regular or 2 way zipper as well- and yes, there are men’s versions. I’ve been using this for way more then travel, it’s certainly gotten tested. Regular life can require a lot of pockets sometimes! Since getting it, I’ve been surprised how much use I’ve gotten out of it. Pick one up, and you will see what I mean. http://www.scottevest.com/ for $135 .

Filed Under: clothes and shoes, review, traveling Tagged With: newspaper cross post, packing, travel

The El Conquistador Resort- A Waldorf Astoria Resort in Puerto Rico

May 20, 2016 by Samantha 16 Comments

Puerto Rico is known for its beautiful landscapes and gorgeous views. When visiting, you will want to find a resort that can offer an amazing experience as well as luxury. El Conquistador is just one of those resorts. Set at the top of a 300-foot bluff on the eastern tip of Puerto Rico, El Conquistador, a AAA Four Diamond resort, spreads across 500 acres. It overlooks the waters where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet.

El Conquistador is divided into 5 villages that offer guestrooms and suites and a separate luxury resort that has villas in 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms and 24-hour butler services. On site in the resort are 23 restaurants, bars and lounges that fit all styles and desires from gourmet to casual, including some with ocean views. (The views can’t be undersold- they are amazing. You will lose time gazing at them, and when you return home they will be one of the things you miss most.) Waking up to the sounds of the ocean lapping and a gentle breeze, then opening the curtains to see the magnificent coast below you is something you will carry with you long after your return to the daily grind.

While staying at the family friendly resort, there is plenty to do. Spend time at Coqui Water Park, a 2.4 acres water park that has exhilarating slides and rapids. Everyone can splash in the mail pool, covering 8,500 sq. ft or swim in the 9,000 sq ft infinity edge pool. If you start feeling a little water logged, relax in the sun on the 25,554 sq ft bathing deck. Make sure you try the piragua (pi·ra·gua), a Puerto Rican shaved ice dessert. They have stands and push carts around the island, and also offer it at the water park. You can’t go wrong with any of the flavors- yes, we tried them all (and I’m not ashamed to admit it!)

Take one of the resort’s boats to visit the Palomino Island, a private 100-acre island that has white sand beaches with recreational activities and water sports. There is a schedule to get you to and from the island, and it’s not hard to figure out. Bring your sand toys or buy them there- there are plenty of shops on the island. It is the perfect place to explore the coral reefs or take a shallow dive or o head out further with a boat dive. You can also sign up for a snorkeling tour to get a different look. If you are looking for a different way to explore the island, try horseback riding. The expert guides can lead you through the wilderness trails and natural beauty of Palomino Island, no matter if you are a beginner or seasoned rider. You could also just relax on one of the sun chairs, play with the kids in the ocean, go shopping, or take the scavenger hunt around the island.

Spending time on this island was my son’s favorite part of the trip. He loved every second of it, and would have stayed longer. He was able to take part in the arts and crafts time, painting an island coconut that he was able to ship home as a souvenir.

If you just want to relax, you can also book a spa treatment at the The Waldorf Astoria Spa. There are 25 treatment rooms, amovement studio with a variety of classes; state-of-the-art fitness center featuring comprehensive fitness assessments and personal trainers; a dedicated children’s spa program – Ki’ Spa; treatments incorporating products indigenous to the surrounding rain forest and ocean; juice bar; and a tea room.

My son and I got a mother/son massage, and we loved it. He was nervous at first, but the lovely masseuse put him at ease almost instantly. She joked with him and made him feel comfortable, and within minutes he was in silent bliss. (The same goes for mom- the second he was fine, I was in heaven.)

For kids, there is also a really fun scavenger hunt to take part in. You get a card and check off sights and “finds”, getting a fun rubber bracelet for each one. At the end, turn it in and hang it on the wall for a prize. My son LOVED this- was obsessed with it, really, both at the resort and also on Palomino Island.

Other activities you can partake in include-

Championship Arthur Hills 18-hole, par-72 golf course with practice putting green,
driving range, pro shop and clubhouse
Four freshwater swimming pools and three additional private pools at Las Casitas
Village including the magnificent Infinity Edge Pool (for Las Casitas guests only) and a
30,000-square-foot deck in the main pool complex, with private cabanas
Seven tennis courts featuring a stadium court and resident tennis pro
Fitness Center complete with state-of-the-art exercise equipment and free-weights,
along with dramatic views of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean
35-slip private marina offering deep-sea fishing charters, sailboats, catamarans, and more

There is so much to see and do for families, no matter how long you spend you will wish you had more time. The wonderful people, amazing food, and relaxing atmosphere is just what you need to get away from the rigors of daily life.

For more information or reservations, please call 888-543-1282 or visit www.elconresort.com and www.lascasitasvillage.com.

Filed Under: travel Tagged With: family travel, islands, travel

Win a Stay at the George Washington Inn in DC!

May 20, 2016 by Samantha 6 Comments

Have you read about what a great time we had staying at the George Washington Inn in DC recently? If not, please head over and check out the review now.

One of you can win aone night stay* at the George Washington Inn in D*Certain restrictions apply. This award is not combinable with other offers and is non-transferable. The award must be consumed by June 30, 2017 and is subject to availability. Black out dates apply.

Please use the RC form below in order to enter- good luck! Ends June 23, 2016.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Filed Under: giveaway, review, traveling Tagged With: giveaway, travel

Unique Summer Getaways in Idaho and Utah

May 18, 2016 by Samantha Leave a Comment

MMM_0035

If you’re looking to visit Utah or Idaho, there’s no shortage of options for a fun, outdoorsy trip. Here are four great options to consider:

Wind Caves Hike in Logan, Utah

This 3.5 mile trail is used for hiking and is open from March through November. The trail is described as moderate, so this might be just the right trail to attempt with children who enjoy the outdoors and don’t mind walking.

Pros:

• With children in tow, the hike should still only take about around three hours.

• The path is well marked.

• There are wildflowers along the trail, and the views of the canyon make for a beautiful hike.

Cons:

• There are steep areas, and some parts of the trail are narrow, which can be hard for smaller children.

Hardware Ranch in Utah

If you take a little drive to the east of Logan on highway 101, you’ll find Hardware Ranch. In the summertime families can see an amazing variety of wildlife while roaming around the ranch, and winter is the perfect time to see elk up close and personal.

Pros:

• The people at Hardware Ranch dedicate their time to helping others learn about animals and wildlife. This destination has the benefit of being fun and educational, hopefully sparking a child’s interest in animal research and nature.

• Around the same area as Hardware Ranch are places to fish, camp, and hunt.

Cons:

• Winter storms may wreak havoc on the roads, so it’s necessary to check conditions before attempting the drive to the ranch.

• The ranch is closed Tuesday-Thursday every week. This is something to consider when planning a trip.

Snake River Greenbelt in Idaho Falls, Idaho

The Snake River Greenbelt offers views of geese, ducks, and the river, including the falls. There are trails for both walking and biking, and you can also climb around the river on the rocks to get even better views.

Pros:

• Free entertainment! For zero dollars your kids can run their energy out.

• Snake River Greenbelt is great for relaxing or for adventure. You can pack a picnic, relax, and enjoy the scenery or hike the over two mile trail around the area.

Cons:

• This is Idaho, so it can be cold around the water any time of year.

• The walking and bike paths are sometimes congested with large groups of people. This can be a problem if you have kids who aren’t paying attention to their surroundings, as they could be hit by rollerbladers or bikers.

Hell’s Half Acre about 25 miles west of Idaho Falls, Idaho

The landscape on this hike was created by lava flows in this area. Designated as a National Natural Landmark and a Wilderness Study Area, this area is the perfect place to study geology in its untainted form.

Pros:

• It’s not hard to find Hell’s Half Acre since there is easy access from Interstate 15.

• This journey can be a great learning experience. Hikers have the chance to learn how animals and plants adapted to live in an area that used to be covered with lava. There are signs along the trail to help hikers learn more.

Cons:

• Due to the lava helping form this area, the terrain on this trail is cracked with jagged places, which can present problems for small kids.

Bio –

This post is courtesy of KJ’s Superstores with many locations in Nevada and Wyoming, including a Logan Utah convenience store and Idaho car wash. KJ’s offers healthy snacks, premium fuel and a wide selection of items for your travel needs for the whole family.